Hi everyone
About 2 months ago I've purchased Garmin Instinct. Liked it very much but eventually I've got severe skin rash at the optical sensor contact placement.
After talking to my dermathologist (and having some additional tests) we've found out that this is a contact dermatitis case, caused by epoxy resin used as a sensor cover.
I've been pretty upset + I had to spend quite some time to heal the irritation (+ I've been using some hormone ointment to speed up the process), but I've came up with the solution!
This may be quite problematic to do for other models, but for Instinct in particular - first I've got a protective case from amazon and put some transparent film underneath it to prevent sensor from contacting the skin, still having the hr functionality going. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R7PZG2S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It worked out pretty well but the case is quite cheap and the material is... Well it wasn't the best option.
So I've googled a bit more and found out this masterpiece - https://www.shapeways.com/product/KYQHLAD8F/garmin-instinct-editions-barometer-cover
This is a 3d printed cover, originally made to prevent barometer from clogging up, but... It worked for this specific issue PERFECTLY.
Not only it makes watch a lot more comfortable (there's no too much pressure on the sensor placement anymore, because originally watch' backside has a little bump there) - the film that I taped at the back of it sits there like it was made for something like this.
I'm a bit surprised and upset by the fact that Garmin didn't make something similar officially, knowing that the problem is quite common (for other models as well), but as a DIY solution - it works just great. I know 20 bucks isn't that cheap, but it's better than not being able to wear the watch with hr functions in place.
Here's the final picture of how it worked out (not adding a picture of the irritation I had.. It's been pretty severe, not pleasant to see :/ )
Take care guys and have a great day everyone :)
